Explore the North Don Trail between Pottery Road and the Bloor Street Viaduct and you’ll discover the “Monsters for Beauty, Permanence and Individuality” ruins.
The Super Cool Thing About These 14 Beasts?
They’re replicated gargoyles from Toronto’s buildings in the downtown core.
It’s as though you stumble upon ancient, forgotten relics as they lay strewn about in a meadow, seemingly unannounced. As was intended by their creator, these cast cement pieces feel strangely bizarre, evoking a fascinating intrigue.
Born from the Don Valley River Art Program in 2017, artist Duane Linklater wanted to inspire reflections and curiosity about our industrial heritage and its relationship with nature.
You Nailed It, Linklater.
We’ll keep our eyes peeled for their twins on prominent buildings around the city (we’re guessing City Hall, for one).
Note the North Don Valley Trail is undergoing Metrolinx construction until July 2025, however this temporarily dead-end trail is still worth checking out.
Starting at Pottery Road until Riverdale Park East before the closed bridge, this 2-km section is about a 30-minute walk or 10-minute ride.
